The nurse cares for an older adult patient who lives in a rural ...

[mp14]

The nurse cares for an older adult patient who lives in a rural area. Which intervention should the nurse plan to implement to best meet this patient's needs?
 
  a. Suggest that the patient move to an urban area.
  b. Assess the patient for chronic diseases that are unique to rural areas.
  c. Ensure transportation to appointments with the health care provider.
  d. Obtain adequate medications for the patient to last for 4 to 6 months.

Question 2

An older patient is hospitalized with pneumonia. Which intervention should the nurse implement to provide optimal care for this patient?
 
  a. Use a standardized geriatric nursing care plan.
  b. Minimize activity level during hospitalization.
  c. Plan for transfer to a long-term care facility upon discharge.
  d. Consider the preadmission functional abilities when setting patient goals.

[Sammyo]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Transportation can be a barrier to accessing health services in rural areas. The patient living in a rural area may lose the benefits of a familiar situation and social support by moving to an urban area. There are no chronic diseases unique to rural areas. Because medications may change, the nurse should help the patient plan for obtaining medications through alternate means such as the mail or delivery services, not by purchasing large quantities of the medications.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
The plan of care for older adults should be individualized and based on the patient's current functional abilities. A standardized geriatric nursing care plan will not address individual patient needs and strengths. A patient's need for discharge to a long-term care facility is variable. Activity level should be designed to allow the patient to retain functional abilities while hospitalized and also to allow any additional rest needed for recovery from the acute process.